Ikea Plans Solar Project for Arizona Store

April 20, 2010  by in UnCategorized   

By Home Furnishings Business in Green on April 21, 2010

Home furnishings retailer Ikea announced Wednesday that a solar energy system is planned for its store in Tempe, Ariz., the company's third such project in the United States.

Pending remaining governmental permits, installation of solar panels on the roof of the store can begin in May, with completion expected in the fall. The 46,000-square-foot configuration will consist of two 300-kWh systems, each built with approximately 1,300 panels (for a total 2,600).

IKEA Tempe's solar program will produce approximately one million kWh of electricity annually for the store, offsetting 712 tons of carbon and equivalent to powering 86 homes.

A similar system is operational in Pittsburgh, Pa., and installation now is underway in Brooklyn, N.Y.  

This project the largest commercial installation in the public power utility SRP€™s service area, and is being implemented in conjunction with SRP. Gloria Solar is the contractor.

"We are very excited about furthering our sustainability commitment by installing solar panels on our store," said Robby Wierman, IKEA Tempe store manager. "This opportunity will reduce our carbon footprint, improve the environment, and contribute to our company's vision of creating a better everyday life for the many. We appreciate the support of the City of Tempe as well SRP and Gloria Solar, our partners in this project."